Page:The Wisconsin idea (IA cu31924032449252).pdf/155

 these things! Truly we do not have to look in the dictionary now for a definition of what is a university.

The question arises at once, "But isn't all this materialistic? Does the University of Wisconsin spell 'cow'?" And what of it? If the boy comes from the farm, and learns at the university how to make that farm more useful and from the scientific methods which he acquires develops more orderly habits of life, if he receives some inspiration which leads to progress or some ideals which lead to good citizenship, is it not worth while? If he because of his scientific knowledge of farming gained in a short course makes money, his sister may be sent to school, probably a luxury which could not have been afforded otherwise.

In addition to the above an agricultural program has been planned which includes the teaching of agriculture in all the rural schools, in the state graded schools, the township high schools, and the county training schools for teachers, and a greater appropriation for university extension and agricultural demonstration, etc. The foundation of all these things has been put into law.

University Extension

University extension has long been connected with colleges, but such have been the aristocratic influences of education (and there are no greater aristocrats found